Growing up in the United States has instilled in me a very different definition of success than I have noticed here in Florence. American citizens are expected to work a 9:00-5:00 workday and put in the hours to keep moving up the socioeconomic ladder. The common goal in America seems to be always wanting more, whether that is more money, more belongings, or more land. Our society emphasises how happiness comes from wealth and material objects. Living in Italy has taught me that this is not a common way of life in every society.

I have noticed how Italians live life more slowly. Florence is filled with art, and naturally, the artists that come with it. Every day when I pass the Duomo, I see dozens of artists selling their art while they create new paintings. There are art galleries and shops on almost every corner. Florence is filled with other small businesses such as paper shops, bakeries, and handmade clothing shops. It is almost impossible to find a corporate building in this city.

This made me realize that success is defined differently in other countries than in America. I began to notice how many local businesses and restaurants in Florence close for the lunch hour, and how the employees will sit outside and enjoy a meal together. I appreciate this small difference because it encourages community. There is almost nothing open 24 hours, which taught me to slow down and limit my unnecessary purchases. Although it is a bustling city during the day, it also feels calmer than cities in America. I think that there are less expectations for the locals to get huge corporate jobs, and instead there is a larger influence to pursue one’s passions.

From this experience, I will take this mindset with me as I go throughout life. Although I am pursuing medicine, I plan to also cultivate my hobbies of drawing and painting as well, because happiness is the true definition of success.